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Case-control study of neurodevelopment in deformational plagiocephaly
Matthew L Speltz1, Brent R Collett, Marni Stott-Miller
1Seattle Children's Hospital, 4800 Sand Point Way, N.E., Mailstop W-3636, Seattle, WA 98105, USA. mspeltz@u.washington.edu
Pediatrics
|February 17, 2010
Summary
Infants with deformational plagiocephaly (DP) show early neurodevelopmental disadvantages, particularly in motor skills. This suggests DP is a risk marker, warranting close developmental monitoring by pediatricians.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurodevelopment
- Craniofacial Abnormalities
Background:
- Deformational plagiocephaly (DP) is a common condition in infants.
- The neurodevelopmental implications of DP require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess and compare the neurodevelopment of infants with and without DP at 6 months of age.
- To identify potential associations between DP severity and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Bayley Scales of Infant Development III (BSID-III) for neurodevelopmental assessment.
- Administered assessments to 235 infants with DP and 237 controls.
- Quantified DP severity using 3D head photography analyzed by blinded craniofacial experts.
Main Results:
- Infants with DP performed significantly worse across all BSID-III scales (cognitive, language, motor) compared to controls.
- Motor composite scores were approximately 10 points lower in the DP group (P < .001).
- Cognitive and language composite scores were approximately 5 points lower in the DP group (P < .001).
Conclusions:
- Deformational plagiocephaly is associated with early neurodevelopmental disadvantage, most pronounced in motor functions.
- DP serves as a marker for increased risk of developmental delays, not necessarily a direct cause.
- Pediatricians should closely monitor the development of infants diagnosed with DP.
